The court held that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Iroakasi was facing a charge of murdering Bassey at her residence on 7, Adeniran Ogunsanya Street, Surulere, Lagos at 2.30pm on July 27, 2013.

“The prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the deceased died as a result of the defendant’s action. She is hereby discharged and acquitted and shall be released forthwith from custody,” the judge held.

During trial, the prosecution led by Mrs R.O Ahmed-Muili, had alleged that Iroakasi set Bassey alight over an allegation that she (Bassey) stole a piece of meat.

It was further alleged that Bassey, after being set ablaze ran outside their house into the streets with the flames on her body.

The prosecution said the flames were doused by passersby whom she allegedly told that her boss set her alight because of theft.

Five witnesses- a security guard, an architect who was a passerby, two police officers and a medical doctor testified during the trial.

Iroakasi, in her defence on March 20, denied the claims of the prosecution.

According to her, Bassey had set herself ablaze while playing with the kerosene stove in the kitchen.

Adebiyi in her judgment, held that the evidence of the prosecution was not strong enough to secure a conviction.